The Allan Labor Government is securing the future of the iconic Great Ocean Road, with major bridge replacement works on the world-famous route set to get underway.
Crews have commenced works on the Labor Government's $6 million project to replace the existing Spout Creek bridge near Eastern View with a stronger, safer structure.
Spout Creek bridge, located between Torquay and Lorne, was originally built in 1954 and widened in 1973, however due to decades of wear and tear needs replacing to avoid having load limits implemented in the future.
Attracting more than six million tourists per year and keeping a range of coastal communities connected, the Great Ocean Road plays a vital role in Victoria's economy and social connectivity.
In addition to the new bridge deck, new bridge railings will be installed to boost safety, while the height of the road on the approach to the bridge will be raised to meet the height of the new bridge.
The works will be completed in two stages, with one half of the existing bridge deck to be removed and then replaced at a time, ensuring that one lane remains open to traffic at all times.
Temporary traffic lights will be on-site to support traffic flow and drivers should allow for additional travel time as minor delays are expected.
Works on the project are expected to take around eight months to complete, weather permitting.
The works are part of the Labor Government's Structure Renewal Program, which is inspecting, repairing and rebuilding vital transport infrastructure right across the state.
As stated by Minister for Roads and Road Safety Melissa Horne
"Great Ocean Road is a vital link for more than six million tourists each year and the many coastal communities that rely on it - this bridge replacement at Spout Creek will ensure this iconic route remains safe and accessible for everyone."
As stated by Member for Western Victoria Gayle Tierney
"After decades of service, we're retiring the old bridge at Spout Creek with a brand new structure to keep our community moving and avoid the need for load limits in the future."
